The current situation
Most football fans can clearly see that Everton have a major problem with their current strikers. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, their talisman, has hardly played any football in the last two seasons.
This has left Neal Maupay, a summer signing from Brighton as Everton’s only recognized senior striker. If this was not a major issue in itself, it has been compounded by the fact that Maupay has arguably been one of the biggest flops of the season, having amassed only one league goal so far in over 20 appearances, admittedly mostly not as a starter.
As a result of the Frenchman’s struggles, Demarai Gray has been used mostly as a striker, albeit a natural winger, at least prior to the arrival of Sean Dyche. Dyche himself understood the gravity of the situation, as seen by his recalling of youngster Ellis Simms from a productive loan spell in the Championship with Sunderland.
Simms has done alright so far, and Gray has performed admirably at times (especially considering he’s not a natural striker), but the situation is likely to be put under more scrutiny if Everton do not avoid relegation.
Options from the Championship
Given that relegation is a possibility for the Toffees this season, it might be prudent for the scouting department to look at options in the EFL Championship.
One such option is that of Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, from Coventry City. Indeed, Gyökeres is currently second in goals scored in the division with 18 goals. That is rather impressive for a side who may not even make the playoffs at the end of the season.
Gyökeres is only 24 years old and would relish the opportunity in the Premier League, if applicable, and at a bigger club. He is a natural finisher and might just be what Everton are looking for.
Another option in the Championship is João Pedro of Watford. The Brazilian is a talented player with very good technical skills but doubts remain about his consistency. Although it must be stated that he is not really a natural striker but he is perfectly capable of playing such a role.
He is also rumored to be attracting a lot of attention from abroad, and as such, this may be his preferred destination. However, he may be determined to prove he can cut it in the Premier League after suffering relegation with Watford last season, and he could see Everton as the place to do this (provided that they stay up).
The wildcard from abroad
One left-field option for Everton could be Gift Orban from Gent. Orab just joined the Belgian side in January from Norway, but has already amassed a ratio of over one goal per match (14 in 12 to be exact).
Orban’s prolific finishing has not gone unnoticed, with plenty of clubs reportedly interested in his services. He is physically imposing, which should make adaptation to the Premier League slightly easier. But it does represent a massive gamble on Everton’s part, especially considering he might not even get a work permit due to the new regulations.
It is safe to say that Everton need striking reinforcements in the summer, regardless of what league they find themselves in.